The Dime Bank names 2026 scholarship recipients The Dime Bank has awarded scholarships to six students from local school districts in honor of their academic achievements and leadership potential. This year’s recipients are Genevieve Neenan from Wallenpaupack attending Syracuse University, Timothy Jason from Delaware Valley attending Penn State, Mia Tallo from West Scranton attending Penn State, Megan Hartman from Scranton attending Penn State, Trevor Dressler from Wayne Highlands attending Shippensburg University, and Simon Kowalchuk-Swartz from Wayne Highlands attending Queen’s University in Kingston. To qualify for the scholarship, students have to be pursuing higher education in business, economics, finance, management or accounting. Each graduating senior received a $1,000 scholarship to support their continued education. You can learn more information about The Dime Bank’s scholarship program at www.thedime.bank/scholarship.
Marywood University’s Accreditation Reaffirmed by Middle States Commission on Higher Education Marywood University has earned reaffirmation of its accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), a significant recognition of the University’s academic excellence, institutional effectiveness, student-centered mission, and commitment to continuous improvement. The Commission’s action, taken on June 25, 2026, follows an extensive three-year institutional self-study and a comprehensive campus evaluation conducted by a peer review team from March 22–25, 2026. Following its review, the visiting team determined that Marywood meets all seven Middle States Standards for Accreditation and recognized the University for numerous accomplishments that distinguish its educational quality and institutional leadership. Throughout its report, the evaluation team praised Marywood’s deep commitment to mission integration, transparent governance, strong financial stewardship, collaborative leadership, student-centered culture, and strategic planning. The team also recognized the University’s significant progress in institutional transformation, highlighting its commitment to innovation, accountability, and long-term sustainability while remaining firmly rooted in its Catholic identity and the mission of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Among the University’s recognized accomplishments were: Meaningful innovation in mission integration, leadership development, strategic planning, and institutional effectiveness. A deeply integrated, mission-driven culture that strengthens Marywood’s identity and competitive position in higher education. Strong, independent governance and institutional leadership focused on academic quality and fiscal stewardship. A collaborative and transparent approach to shared governance and strategic decision-making. Significant progress in financial planning, accountability, and long-term institutional sustainability. A student-centered learning environment grounded in care, engagement, and holistic development. Meaningful innovation in mission integration, leadership development, strategic planning, and institutional effectiveness. “We are incredibly proud of this reaffirmation,” said President Lisa A. Lori. “Middle States accreditation represents the highest level of institutional quality assurance, and this outcome reflects the extraordinary work of our faculty, staff, students, administrators, and Board of Trustees. The evaluation team recognized not only the strength of our academic programs, but also the remarkable transformation taking place across the University and our commitment to accountability, strategic planning, innovation, student success, and our enduring Catholic mission. This reaffirmation provides a strong foundation as we continue to build the next chapter of Marywood University’s history.” The accreditation review also acknowledged Marywood’s growing culture of evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement, while recognizing major investments in student success, academic assessment, governance, financial stewardship, and strategic planning. Alongside reaffirming accreditation, MSCHE requested a supplemental information report by August 14, 2028, documenting progress on several continuous improvement initiatives, including a comprehensive, data-informed review of Marywood’s academic programs. The visiting team recommended that the University evaluate under-enrolled programs and align its academic portfolio with student demand, workforce needs, mission, and long-term institutional sustainability. This work is part of the standard expectations placed on colleges and universities nationwide, and Marywood’s ongoing program review efforts reflect the responsible, data-informed practices that accreditors and higher education leaders agree are essential for long-term institutional resilience. The University will continue building on these strengths as it advances its 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, Into the Future: Defining What’s Next, and pursues new opportunities for academic innovation, global engagement, and enrollment growth, with new innovative initiatives being announced this summer. The next Middle States Self-Study evaluation visit will occur during the 2033 to 2034 academic year.
Johnson College Reports a 32% Enrollment Increase Johnson College Sees 32% Enrollment Increase Year-over-Year, Sixth Consecutive Year of Record Enrollment to Address Industry’s Demand for Skilled Workforce Johnson College proudly announces a remarkable milestone as it experiences its sixth consecutive year of record enrollment, with overall student numbers surging by an impressive 32% year over year. This unprecedented growth underscores the increasing interest and value in the College’s hands-on, industry-immersed, career-focused education across all its 18 programs. “A sixth consecutive year of record enrollment is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, staff, the quality of our programs, and the increasing recognition of the value of a Johnson College hands-on, technical education.” Said Bill Burke, Vice President of Enrollment and Student Affairs at Johnson College, “The College’s growth at both of its campuses is not only a sign of its success but also a promising indicator of the future of technical education and its role in shaping our future skilled workforce” Johnson College offers a range of programs designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s industries. With state-of-the-art classrooms and labs and strong industry partnerships, students have access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities for real-world experience. The College’s focus on technical education ensures that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also adept at applying their skills to help build strong regional and national industries. “We’re excited to welcome such a diverse and talented group of students into all our programs,” said Dr. Katie Pittelli, President & CEO of Johnson College. “As industry demands continue to evolve, Johnson College will continue to answer the call for our highly skilled technicians and technologists. With the growth of high-demand technical careers showing no signs of slowing, we will continue to work with our employer partners to ensure our students are equipped for career success and ready to meet the future head-on.” The College’s commitment to its students and industry partners is evident in these exceptional enrollment increases. Programs are preparing students for industries experiencing faster-than-average national 10-year growth trends, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Notably, these include Veterinary Nursing (21% increase), Medical Equipment Repair (13% increase), and HVAC and Electrical Construction (6% increase) industries. Some Johnson College enrollment highlights include: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Technology: Enrollment has risen by 10% from the previous year, reflecting the growing need for skilled professionals in this essential field. Electrical Construction Technology: This program has seen a 35% increase, highlighting the burgeoning demand for highly trained residential and commercial electricians, and industrial engineering technicians. Architectural Drafting and Design Technology: Enrollment has surged by 57%, marking one of the most significant growth areas, driven by the expanding architectural and design industry. Aviation Technology: In its second year, this program has experienced a 32% increase in enrollment, demonstrating the clear demand for well-trained aviation technicians in an industry facing a shrinking workforce. Biomedical Equipment Technology: The 43% rise in enrollment, reflects the heightened interest in the Healthcare Technology Management industry. Electronic Engineering Technology: This program’s 17% growth demonstrates ongoing enthusiasm for careers in electronic instrumentation and related fields. Veterinary Nursing: A 56% increase in enrollment highlights the growing passion for animal care and veterinary sciences. Welding Fabrication & Manufacturing Technology: Enrollment has risen by 28%, signaling continued robust interest in skilled trades and manufacturing. Additionally, Johnson College has seen a notable increase year-to-year in enrollment from various age groups: Directly from high school: 11% Ages 19-21: 35% Ages 22+: 23% Ages 25+: 13% Johnson College is excited to welcome a diverse group of students this academic year and looks forward to continuing its commitment to being the leader in hands-on, industry-focused education in northeastern Pennsylvania.
Marywood Professor Named “Trailblazer in Higher Education” Jeffrey Kegolis, Ph.D., Marywood University’s vice president for the student experience, was recently named to City & State PA’s listing of 2024 Higher Education Trailblazers. City & State PA is a premier multimedia news organization that dedicates its coverage to Pennsylvania’s state and local government, including all things politics and public policy, with in-depth, non-partisan news coverage that serves Pennsylvania’s leaders every day as a trusted guide to the issues impacting the Keystone State. Since arriving at Marywood University last year, Dr. Kegolis, who is passionate about supporting college students, has championed a new, counselor-staffed mental health support hotline and rolled out The Hub, a space for academic, career, and veterans’ services at the campus learning commons. Dr. Kegolis’ career in higher education spans more than two decades and features extensive experience in multiple areas of student services, including leadership programs, campus engagement/activities, residence life, fraternity & sorority life, and student conduct, among others. Dr. Kegolis holds a Ph.D. degree in higher education administration from Bowling Green State University. He also is a graduate of Marywood University, where he earned a Master of Science degree in counselor education with secondary school certification. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology with a neuroscience concentration from King’s College.
Johnson College Signs Dual Admission Agreement Johnson College and Bloomsburg University signed a dual admission transfer agreement on April 27, 2022. Through this agreement, students who apply for dual admission and graduate from Johnson College’s Electronic Engineering Technology program are guaranteed admission to Bloomsburg University. They will enter with at least full junior standing in Bloomsburg University’s Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology program. Johnson College students transferring to Bloomsburg University must meet minimum cumulative grade-point average requirements and satisfy all other transfer requirements. All agreements become effective in Fall 2022. “Creating a pathway for our students to achieve a bachelor’s degree at Bloomsburg University ensures they continue to build on their Johnson College hands-on education to advance their future careers,” said Dr. Katie Leonard, President & CEO of Johnson College. “True to our mission of educating the students of Pennsylvania and beyond, this agreement will ensure that Johnson College students have a seamless transition to Bloomsburg University, creating the best path forward to future success,” said BU President Bashar Hanna.
Marywood University to Hold Transfer Tuesdays Opportunities Marywood University will hold its Transfer Tuesdays program for college students or former college students who are considering transferring to Marywood University. We welcome transfer students at all stages of their college careers. Transfer Tuesdays opportunities will take place on the following Tuesdays: May 18, June 22, July 20, and August 17, 2021. Those interested can schedule an appointment every half hour beginning at 2 p.m. Registered visitors can discuss financial aid and scholarship options, transfer credits, take a tour of campus, review credits for transfer eligibility, and complete an application for admission. Marywood University’s fall semester begins on Monday, August 23, 2021. For additional information, or to register for the spring/summer Transfer Tuesdays program, please call Marywood University’s Office of University Admissions, at (570) 348-06234, email YourFuture@marywood.edu, or visit www.marywood.edu/transfernow.
